As autumn approaches, the air in Delhi begins to buzz with festive energy. Shardiya Navratri 2025, which will be celebrated from September 22 to October 2, transforms the capital into a dazzling hub of devotion and artistry. This is especially true during Durga Puja, when the city’s Bengali community recreates the magic of Kolkata with spectacular pandals (temporary shrines), authentic rituals, and mouth-watering food. Whether you're a seasoned pandal-hopper or new to the experience, here are five must-visit Durga Puja pandals in Delhi that promise an unforgettable cultural immersion.
1. CR Park Kali Mandir Durga Puja – A Slice of Kolkata in Delhi
Location: Market 1, Chittaranjan Park, South Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Nehru Place (Violet Line), Nehru Enclave (Magenta Line)
Chittaranjan Park, popularly known as “Mini Kolkata,” hosts one of the most elaborate Durga Puja celebrations in the capital. The Kali Mandir pandal stands out for its authentic Bengali ambiance, complete with traditional food stalls, cultural programs, and spiritual rituals.
Food Recommendations:
Annapurna Sweet House: Known for Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh
Dadu Cutlet Shop: Famous for fish fry, cutlets, and other fried delicacies
2. New Delhi Kali Bari Durga Puja – For Ritual Purists
Location: Mandir Marg, Connaught Place, Central Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: RK Ashram Marg (Blue Line)
One of the most revered and oldest Durga Puja venues in Delhi, the New Delhi Kali Bari offers a serene and spiritual experience. This pandal is focused on rituals and simplicity, attracting devotees who come to witness the purity of the traditional celebrations.
Food Recommendations:
Bengali Sweet House: Classic sweets like mishti doi and kachori
Wenger’s Deli: Renowned for bakery treats, snacks, and savory items
3. Arambagh Durga Puja – Thematic Brilliance Meets Devotion
Location: Panchkuian Road, Paharganj, Central Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Ramakrishna Ashram Marg (Blue Line)
If you enjoy themed celebrations and artistic installations, Arambagh Durga Puja is a must-visit. Each year, the pandal is designed with creative concepts, blending mythological stories with contemporary art, making it a visual and spiritual delight.
Food Recommendations:
Sita Ram Diwan Chand: A hotspot for spicy chole bhature
Tadka Singh: Known for rich, flavorful North Indian curries
4. Matri Mandir Puja, Safdarjung Enclave – Culture & Community
Location: B-2 Block, Safdarjung Enclave, South Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Green Park (Yellow Line)
Matri Mandir is synonymous with a wholesome cultural experience. With performances ranging from music to dance and drama, this pandal creates a festive environment while staying rooted in Bengali traditions.
Food Recommendations:
Rajinder Da Dhaba: Popular for kebabs, curries, and rolls
Evergreen Sweet House: Known for chole bhature, chaats, and sweets
5. Nivedita Enclave Puja, Paschim Vihar – A Community Affair
Location: Nivedita Enclave, Paschim Vihar, West Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Paschim Vihar (Blue Line)
Located in the heart of a Bengali residential colony, this pandal is cherished for its community-driven celebrations. Though more intimate than some of the city’s larger pandals, it offers warm hospitality, devotional fervor, and a taste of home-style Bengali cooking.
Food Recommendations:
Nagpal Chole Bhature: A favorite for traditional North Indian breakfast
Shree Rathnam: Great for South Indian meals like dosa and idli
Pro Tips for Your 2025 Delhi Pandal Hopping Adventure
Navigating the festive crowds can be overwhelming. Follow these tips to make your Durga Puja experience smooth and memorable:
Use the Metro: Delhi’s traffic is at its peak during festivals. The metro is the fastest and most convenient way to get close to the major pandals.
Visit on Saptami and Ashtami: These are the most auspicious and liveliest days. Visit in the evening (after 7 PM) to see the pandals beautifully lit up and witness the evening aarti.
Go Early for Bhog: If you want to partake in the community lunch (bhog), which is typically khichuri and mixed vegetables, be sure to arrive by noon on Ashtami.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Festive, traditional attire is encouraged but prioritize comfort.
Carry Cash: While some stalls may accept digital payments, many smaller food vendors operate on cash only.
Celebrate Durga Puja in Delhi This Navratri
Delhi’s Durga Puja is more than a religious festival, it’s a cultural celebration that brings people together through devotion, food, and art. Whether you’re drawn to intricate pandal designs, sacred rituals, or authentic regional cuisine, these five pandals provide a memorable way to experience Navratri 2025. Don your festive attire and dive into the magic of Durga Puja in the capital.
